The Fiske Guide examined more than 300 colleges and universities in the United States, Canada and Great Britain.

In the book, Willamette was praised for its small class sizes, active campus life and personal atmosphere. It noted the benefits of the university-owned Zena Forest and Farm, a “300-acre outdoor laboratory” used by hundreds of students each term, and it described Willamette's professors as “amazing, engaging and supportive.”

At Willamette, students said they have the freedom to express their individuality while being a part of a larger community.

“Community is what sets Willamette apart,” one student said. “Many of the Pacific Northwest schools look similar on paper, but once you step foot on campus, it is clear how warm and caring students, staff and faculty are.”